How to Start a Career as Software Developer

A software developer, also called a programmer or coder, is someone who creates software by using computer languages. A career in software development is lucrative, not just for salary purposes. Still, this profession has creativity as a vital part of it. Developers are accountable for developing various computer applications and software to make using computers more user-friendly and updated.

Software is significant in almost every industry these days. The software developers use their skills and abilities to create new software and update the existing software.

If you are someone whose curiosity is piqued by software development or call yourself a creative thinker backed with problem-solving abilities, a job as a software developer is a fantastic choice for you. Since it is used in various fields, you can pursue your career in an area that aligns with your passion.

Hence, one of the most important aspects of a career in software development is passion or interest. You must be passionate about becoming a developer and have a keen interest in learning programming languages. If these two elements back your plan of becoming a software developer, it will become easier for you to become a developer.

Roles and Responsibilities –

Besides the technical work accompanying software developers, various other responsibilities are assigned. These include–

• Explore, design, and use software

• Write codes

• Maintaining and testing for the smooth functioning of the software

• Researching the needs of users

• Testing and analyzing new programs

• Observing areas requiring modifications in existing programs and subsequently creating these modifications

• Train new users

• Manage and enhance quality assurance techniques

•  Work with other departments like UX Designers, Business Analysts, and other software developers to meet the company’s objective.

So, to help you plan for your objective, here are the eight steps you should follow to become a software developer–

1. Learn a programming language

To pursue a career in software development, the essential component is learning programming languages. Apart from computer science theory, it would be best if you also learned coding to become a software developer. There is a myth that only exceptionally smart and genius individuals should enter this field, but coding is easy, although mastering it is hard. But you will find ordinary people, just like the rest of us, learning the same language and technology and then enforcing it until proficiency is accomplished.

The programming language is the source through which you talk to the computer. To execute any task, the computer requires step-by-step instructions created from codes by the meticulous work of developers. The essential functions are easy to write, but as the complexity of the task rises, it becomes a difficult job.

Some of the languages you might consider for this highly sophisticated communication between developers and computers are Java, Python, C++, and Scala.

2. Define your goal

Software publishers, finance companies, and insurance carriers are some fields where software developers work. You should know your end goal as it will help you pursue your career in a more structured way.

For example, suppose you prefer to work in healthcare. In that case, it is significant to learn all that we have discussed and know how the records of patients are cataloged and how private data and other confidential information are stored.

Many software developers might choose to work traditionally, i.e., in the office, while others work remotely. So, having a clear direction of your goals helps you smoothly navigate the process.

3. Acquire a Degree or take Courses

Earning a degree is not a prerequisite to becoming a developer, but with it, you will be able to enhance your technical skills and expand your job prospects. As you look for majors, concentrate on the ones that are around software development skills like information technology, software engineering, or computer science. If you are an engineering candidate, degrees like B. Tech or M. Tech in fields like information technology can prove valuable. A Bachelor’s in Computer Application is another degree you can pursue.

However, courses can guide you towards the basics if you are from a different educational background. Numerous courses are expensive and budget-friendly, depending on the information and mastery you can obtain.

Various certifications are also available online and offline offered by some reputable organizations like Google, which allows you to certify your skills for your resume.

4. Obtaining Work Experience

If you think you are not ready yet to invest your money in these courses, another way to learn the basic skills and exposure to software development is through freelancing and internship.

Due to the wide-ranging use of software development, from designing new software to updating them to meet the ever-changing technological needs, you can get a job in various fields. There are multiple websites on which you can start your job hunting process. This will give you leverage over competitors who may not focus on prior work experience.

5. Start Working

It doesn’t matter if you have applied for courses or internships; it is essential to devote your time working on your programming languages and enhancing your proficiency. Using your knowledge to practice is the lead through which you will comprehend the process and become a better, more efficient, and competent developer.

For example, if you want to design apps, you can start by working on any of your ideas by creating mobile apps. This will enable you to see where you are lacking.

6. Create your Portfolio

Like any other career, software development also requires your work to demonstrate your ability. As you create mobile apps, build websites, etc., compile them into a portfolio so that potential employers can recognize your skills through the work.

A short biography describing yourself backed with projects and achievements is vital for your portfolio. Link it to your resume and add contact information. You should add some of your skills relevant to the field and professional and personal projects you undertook.

7. Create your Resume

If you don’t already have a resume, now is the time to begin working on it. It should clearly show the progress you have made in your career and the experiences that enriched your potential. Demonstrate the projects that are relevant to the job role. Change your achievements and job experiences to fit in the position and firm you are applying for.

8. Polish your Non-Technical Skills

Apart from technical skills, non-technical skills are crucial for a software developer. You will have to explain your work-related aspects to the client, for which communication skills are vital. Apart from that, collaboration and teamwork skills are also crucial as you will work under a team to attain the company’s objective. Problem-solving skills, Interpersonal skills, and critical thinking skills are also necessary.

Conclusion

Software Developer is a lucrative job with its challenges. Like any other job, software development requires thorough planning backed by intelligent work and practical experience. With the right skills and knowledge, you can quickly master the art of coding.